Up and Running and Feeling good

The physical benefits of running are well known but frequent runners also experience tension relief, enhanced focus, spirits lifted and generally feel great. Running, it seems, puts you in a good mood.

Happy Runners “Runner’s high” is a result of the body’s natural production of endorphins that produce a state of euphoria after a period of running. However, there have been studies that running can have more powerful, long term effect. Some health professionals believe that exercising can help to combat bouts of depression and the Mental Health Foundation believes exercise to be the key to mental wellbeing. Studies in Illinois, USA, found that more exercise correlated with less depression, anxiety and insomnia.

It is believed that serotonin, which is a hormone found naturally in the brain, is boosted through exercise. Serotonin levels are commonly depleted in depressed patients so increasing the levels through exercise and, in particular, running will help to elevate mood and increase feelings of contentment. Commonly prescribed anti-depressants perform the same function of boosting serotonin levels and research has shown the relationship between mood and exercise.

Insomnia and other sleeping disorders are also as a result of low levels of a particular hormone. This time dopamine is the culprit. Used for controlling sleeping and waking cycles, dopamine levels are lower when stressed or depressed. Performing only moderate intensity exercise, such as walking up your favourite hill can elevate dopamine levels.

The social side of running cannot be ignored either. Participants in even the most gentle exercise report feeling “happier” as a result even though the activity is too light to make radical changes in the bodies chemical balance. Psychologists suggest the exercise offers a “sense of empowerment” which is just as important as the physiological effects.

Running is much more of a community activity these days with running groups springing up in every area and charities including running events in its programme of activities. So we can expect to see fitter, healthier and, maybe, happier people around us.

(adapted from "Running Fitness" article "Feel Good Factor" June 2010)

Last Updated (Friday, 23 July 2010 20:24)

Local Running Groups

This a very short list compared to the groups that are available. You should be able to find similar groups in your area.

Run in England is an England Athletics community based running project. It gives everyone an opportunity to get active and begin running for fun and fitness.
Supported by Sport England and delivered by the long-standing Women's Running Network, we're delivering community running groups across the whole of England.

An all women's running movement founded in 1998 in Devon by Pauline Beare and Peggy Wiseman to inspire women of all ages to run for fun and fitness. Since 1998 the WRN has grown from a handful of members based in Exeter to a large organisation with groups all over England and Wales. "The success" says Pauline "is based on a simple philosophy: Giving all women, whatever their age, size or ability, the opportunity to run together to improve their health, fitness, confidence and safety."

From beginners to elite athletes, 8 to 80 years old, Preston Harriers has a training programme, a competition schedule and a social group ready to welcome you. Prseton Harriers regard themselves as a forward thinking club with a dedicated team of committee members, coaches and athletes who strive to bring sporting success to the proud city of Preston.

Sports Bras

A quick search on youtube will show you the best, and worst, of the advice on offer for measuring bra size. While nothing can replace the expert advice of a trained bra fitter and actually trying a bra on, here are a few useful links to get you started.

A US site with video assistance and good practical hints for your basic measurements.

A UK site with a "Fitting Room" section with good practical advice and video guide.

An "Ask The Expert" product selector.

Run-It 37 Moor Lane Preston, PR1 7AT 01772 252727 enquiries@run-it.co.uk